Wythe crash claims two from Ohio

The Virginia State Police is investigating a fatal crash that occurred Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023, at 7:05 a.m., on Interstate 77 at the 42 mile marker in Wythe County.

A 2011 Mercury Grand Marquis was traveling north on I-77 when it pulled off onto the right shoulder. The vehicle then attempted to cross the northbound lanes of travel from the right shoulder to use the emergency crossover and was struck by a northbound tractor-trailer. The tractor-trailer was unable to avoid striking the Mercury. The crossover was properly marked for authorized use only.

The driver, Jamie A. Pittman, 64, and passenger, Debra L. Pittman, 68, both of Orrville, Ohio, died at the scene. Both were wearing seat belts.

The driver of the tractor trailer was not injured in the crash.